The oral medication Tapazole is the least risky and expensive of the three prescribed treatments for hyperthyroidism in cats. The others, surgical removal of the thyroid glands and radioactive iodine, require hospitalization. Iodine therapy is available only at specially equipped veterinary clinics.
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Benefits
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Although Tapazole is not FDA-approved for use in animals, it prevents a cat's thyroid from producing excessive thyroid hormone and maintains blood levels of the hormone at normal levels.
Doses
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The usual Tapazole dose for cats is a single 5 mg tablet given with food every eight to 12 hours. Always follow your vet's instructions for your cat's individual dosage.
Time Frame
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Your cat will need Tapazole for the remainder of its life unless you opt for an alternative treatment. The drug takes several weeks, says Washington State University, to normalize thyroid levels.
Side Effects
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Initial side effects include lethargy, loss of appetite and occasional vomiting, seldom lasting more than two weeks. More serious ones that end when the drug is stopped are liver and blood complications.
Considerations
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Tapazole treats but does not cure hyperthyroidism. Your cat's dosage will need adjusting as its disease progresses, but it can still live an active and comfortable life.
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